History of the State of New York, Vol. I (1609-1691)
Since, a report has been rendered by the Commissioners, who had been to the King, at Beverly, from the Parliament, to propose terms of accommodation to His Majesty, whereby the danger of a civil war might be avoided; people have been continually occupied in enlisting and mustering troops, both foot and horse. The city of London will furnish, and maintain for some months, it is reported, five thousand men. The apprentices who volunteer with their masters' consent, and will be received into service, will, by their service, shorten their apprenticeship, and be for ever freemen of London. A great many more are presenting themselves than it is designed to accept. One of the Commissioners who had been to the King, told me, that Parliament had offered to place the city of Hull in His Majesty's hands; to restore the magazine that was there; to regulate the militia by bill to discharge the forces enlisted on both sides, at one and the same ;
time. And he declared, moreover, that those of the Parliament will uphold the King in good faith, and sincerely in his prerogative, dignity and rank. On the other hand, his Majesty requires, first of all, that Hull and the magazine be restored. That those of the Parliament do first dismiss the force they have raised, and place the militia, as well as the fleet, at his
disposal. Moreover, that the Parliament be adjourned, to meet in some other place besides Westminster or London. This being effected, his Majesty will consider what is necessary to